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Volume CXVIII, No. XXIII |
December 8, 2005 |
Ring in the new year with a few easy resolutions
Whether it's to lose five pounds or give up addictions such as smoking or Facebook, most CSB/SJU students will pick New Year's resolutions in the coming weeks.
To make the burden of choosing a little easier, here are a few students might consider:
1. Resolve to attend more on-campus speakers. CSB/SJU brings in a remarkable amount of politicians, academics and community leaders whose research and contributions can be valuable learning tools for students. Last week, Lech Walesa, the former president of Poland and a Nobel Prize winner, spoke to more than 1,200 at the Abbey. In January, the College Republicans are hosting Dinesh D'Souza, a renowned author, scholar and former policy analyst for the Reagan White House. Other organizations, such as the Center for Women, have sponsored discussions on controversial topics, such as the glass ceiling, through their "Hot Chocolate, Hot Topics" series.
2. Resolve to volunteer. During the holidays, many local organizations can use an extra hand to collect items for food drives or help at homeless shelters. Like to travel? CSB Campus Ministry is still seeking participants for its Alternative Spring Break program at the end of February.
3. Resolve to attend more Fine Arts Events. Go see the Minnesota Orchestra perform at Petters Auditorium or stop by a student art display in the BAC. There are a plethora of options, so everyone should be able to find an event that they will enjoy.
4. Resolve to become more multi-culturally aware. You can start today by attending a campus-wide open forum that poses the question, "Where does diversity go after the Festival of Cultures?" It will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. in Quad 264.
5. Resolve to know more about campus and community issues. Where is the new road going to be built? How will it change campus? Tuition increases will not coincide with previously given scholarships. So, are you going to have to find another job to be able to cover additional education costs? Knowing more about your campus can not only ensure that your experience at CSB/SJU caters to your needs, but you may also be able to save money or make better use of it if you can tell your senators how you want it spent.
6. Resolve to explore your spiritual side. SJU Campus Ministry offers taizé worship at 9 p.m. every Tuesday in the Frank House chapel. Take a theology class that incorporates some of your other interests, such as Judaism, Islam, diversity, family or gender. Try going to Mass or attending a different service than you usually do. Join the church choir or even sing a little bit louder than normal. Build relationships with the monastic community.
7. Resolve to take a class that sparks your interest. Sure, you might be a management or communication major, but when registration rolls around again, why not try taking Chinese or philosophy? Take advantage of being at a liberal arts institution while you're here.
8. Resolve to take more time simply enjoying college. These four years fly by unbelievably fast, so take a minute to talk to a professor, hang out with friends or just walk around our campuses. Although college may be extremely stressful at times, remember that it also represents the best years of our lives.
